FOOTWEAR

Black Sheep are stock one of the largest ranges of skateboarding shoes in the country with our brands including heritage footwear such as Vans and skater owned staples Emerica, etnies, eS, Lakai. On our shelves you can also find more fashion forward companies such as HUF Worldwide alongside Nike SB, adidas skateboarding and New Balance Numeric which provide an athletic aspect to skate shoe production. The choice comes down to whatever suits your style of skateboarding the best.

Skate shoes are almost an extension of your board and often your choice of footwear will have a big effect upon your skating. Vulcanised footwear tends to have a thinner soles which will provide perfect boardfeel. Whereas capsules are generally thicker shoes constructed from more robust materials, offering better protection and more durability. There are always exceptions to these rules as many skate shoe companies have now developed specific technologies to maintain the best of both worlds such as vulcanised and cupsole hybrids. This to enables your shoes to be scaled back without sacrificing durability or protective without giving up precious board feel.

Skateboard shoes are constantly being developed by manufacturers who often embark on rigorous research and testing techniques whilst developing their shoes. Manufacturers like Sole Technology Inc (parent company of Etnies, Emerica and Es), research and develop their footwear using biomechanical research techniques, and have developed impact systems to help prevent heel bruises. An important focus area of skate shoe production which has been adopted by many other manufacturers.

A surge in brands such as Vans and DC Shoes during the early 2000s could be considered the first instance of skateboarding footwear becoming part of mainstream high street shopping. Over the years, more brands have also gained popularity outside of the skateboarding market and mainstream sports footwear companies have branched out with their own skateboard focused divisions such as Nike SB, adidas skateboarding, New Balance Numeric and Converse Cons.

From big box to core and skater owned, we’re sure to cater for whatever your preference in skateboarding footwear is. We stock almost all men’s sizes although some sizing can vary over different brands or models. For example, New Balance Numeric and adidas tend to fit a size small while Vans and Nike are often true to size. If you are unsure with the sizing of certain brands or models visit our Manchester store and try them on for yourself. Our staff will be happy to advise you on what shoes will work the for you and your style of skating.

Our Manchester Skateboard experts will be your point of contact for all your purchases online through the website Black Sheep Skateboard Store and any other third party sites we use to sell 1000's of Skateboard decks, trucks, wheels and bearings. You can also find footwear and clothing from Nike Sb, Adidas Skateboarding, New Balance Numeric, Stussy, Volcom, Vans Syndicate, Enjoi, Almost, Huf, Emerica, Altamont and much more !

If you require advice about any products you have seen online please contact this department, our experts will be happy to give advice on skateboarding in general and any other queries or questions you may have about all the clothing, footwear, accessories and skateboards you see on our website.